Niche Aircraft Acquisition: Complex Things Come In Small Packages.

摘要

This study is an examination of the Department of Defense s (DoD) development and employment of aircraft designed to meet specific operational capability gaps. Modern conflict necessitates that the DoD develop capabilities to meet the needs of the warfighter which cannot be met by existing platforms. These requirements typically require the rapid procurement and employment of what appear to be simple platforms. The processes which facilitate these acquisitions, however, often become convoluted and dysfunctional. This thesis addresses the sources of this dysfunction in order to aid those who would seek to develop these niche capability aircraft for future conflicts. Beginning by framing the current acquisitions framework for meeting the capability needs of the warfighter, this thesis provides a framework for tailoring the future procurement of niche aircraft. It then analyzes two case studies of past niche aircraft acquisitions to highlight the obstacles that can emerge during the course of niche aircraft procurement and employment. The final chapter links the lessons from the case studies to the current acquisitions process and supplies recommendations to those charged with developing and acquiring the niche capability needs of the warfighter in future conflicts.